Sheriff: Accused face-biting killer regains consciousness

Martin County sheriff’s spokeswoman Trisha Kukuvka said Friday that Austin Harrouff is responsive, but has not provided a statement.

The 19-year-old Florida State University student had been heavily sedated since the Aug. 15 stabbings of John Stevens and Michelle Mishcon outside their home. Sheriff William Snyder says the former high school football player and wrestler will be charged with murder once he’s released from the hospital.

Investigators say Harrouff almost cut off his thumb during the attack and had suffered bruises and other injuries while being subdued. Harrouff’s father said his son’s liver was malfunctioning. The sheriff said he may have ingested caustic chemicals in the couple’s garage.

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